Silkcotton Purslane
Portulaca halimoides
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
2"–12" H × 4"–16" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, NM and 4 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Silkcotton purslane is a low-growing succulent that forms dense mats with small, fleshy leaves and tiny flowers. This drought-tolerant annual blooms from June through September. Its compact size makes it suitable for ground cover or rock garden applications.
In an HOA neighborhood
Silkcotton Purslane takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Mat-forming growth can appear uncontrolled
- Annual nature means gaps and bare spots
- Small flowers and informal appearance may look weedy
Wildlife value
The small flowers attract bees and beetles during the summer blooming period. As a native succulent, it provides habitat for small desert-adapted insects.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Silkcotton Purslane fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.